The Great Commandment

By Harlan Y. Hammond

The lawyer stood before the Christ,
His mission born of guile:
“Which is the greatest of our laws?”
He asked with haughty smile.

The Master’s face was calm but grave,
His features chiseled stone:
“To love the Lord with all thine heart,”
Said he in gentle tone.

The man, less sure, was silent now,
But Jesus still serene:
“And love thy neighbor as thyself,”
Replied the Nazarene.

The lawyer, taken by surprise,
Slipped silently away.
But yet remains the eternal truth
Down to the present day.